Hollywood isn’t just about the red carpets and box-office-smashing films. Many of the industry’s biggest celebrities have involved themselves with sports franchises. From basketball to football, these famous personalities have poured their fortunes into many of the best teams in the country. But what A-listers are involved in sports, and to what extent do their interests reach? What is the extent of their economic involvement, and what have they accomplished? Let’s dive into the most fascinating cases.
1. Ryan Reynolds – Wrexham AFC (Football)
Ryan Reynolds made a buzz in 2020 after he and actor Rob McElhenney bought Wrexham AFC, a Welsh football team infused with rich history. Later, it was revealed that the duo spent millions of dollars improving the team, renewing the stadium, and creating a famous docuseries titled Welcome to Wrexham. Reynolds is known for giving life to Deadpool and poured his heart into this investment, turning it into a winning project. And perhaps in the future, he will acquire more than one team. Perhaps it will be something completely new and not the football he is already accustomed to.
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In 2023, Wrexham made a triumphant entry back into the English Football League after 15 years of exile. This was made possible by the endless efforts of Reynolds and McElhenney. Their ownership of the team single-handedly turned nobodies into global stars and, as a result, attracted sponsors such as TikTok and Aviation Gin. Wrexham’s social media presence drastically increased, as over 300% more fans started following the team, and the vision started getting noticed worldwide. Wrexham AFC helped build Ryan’s legacy.
2. LeBron James – Liverpool FC & Boston Red Sox
Not only is LeBron James a famous basketball player, but he also has strong business acumen and a strong passion for sports. Back in 2011, he acquired a minority share in Liverpool Football Club through Fenway Sports Group, making James a partial owner of the club. The $6.5 million he paid for the stake is now estimated to be worth over $90 million, especially after Liverpool won the Premier League in 2020 and the Champions League in 2019.
In 2021, LeBron added more assets to his portfolio by buying a share in the Boston Red Sox, which gave him the title of one of the few NBA players who own an MLB team. In addition, he also invested in the Pittsburgh Penguins and NASCAR. Now, with a staggering wealth of $1 billion, James has solidified his name in sports management and greatly increased his assets. So the question remains: will he one day own an NBA team? Most people believe that it is just a matter of time.
3. Will Ferrell – Los Angeles FC (MLS)
Will Ferrell is considered a legend in the world of comedy, but did you know he is also a staunch supporter of soccer and an owner of Los Angeles FC? Ferrell has been an active fan ever since he became a part of the ownership group in 2016, going to games and interacting with supporters all the time. While other celebrity owners tend to hide away, Ferrell has taken the initiative to attend club events, turning him into a club icon with the supporters.
With his support, LAFC became outstanding in the MLS, winning their first league title in 2022. The club won over 22,000 average attendance per match, breaking records. The club is now valued at over $900 million, making it one of the current leading franchises in MLS. Ferrell’s love for soccer is so deep that he strategically joked at one point, saying he would like to come off the bench if required. LAFC’s success shows that even comedians can make serious moves in sports.
4. David Beckham – Inter Miami CF (MLS)
Not many athletes switch from playing professional sports to owning a franchise as effortlessly as David Beckham. Beckham, among the most popular footballers throughout the world, had an option in his MLS contract to purchase an expansion team for only $25 million. In 2018, Beckham’s team, Inter Miami CF, was established, starting the first Major League Soccer team in South Florida.
Beckham’s influence was felt instantly. He brought superstars such as Lionel Messi in 2023, making Inter Miami one of the most popular clubs in the world. Messi’s first appearance with Miami sparked a 900% increase in ticket sales, with the market value surpassing $500 million. With a new stadium being built and more fans appearing, Beckham’s franchise is revolutionizing the future of MLS. All soccer enthusiasts know Beckham, which guarantees the Inter Miami franchise will stay one of the best in football. His legendary status allows people to wonder if he will eventually purchase a European club.
5. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson – XFL (American Football)
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson viewed the bankruptcy of the XFL, an American football league, in 2020 as a business opportunity. He and his partners bought the league for $15 million, intending to turn it into a competitor for the NFL. Despite the XFL failing twice, Johnson’s vision gave new hope. With the XFL’s 2021 revival struggling because of a pandemic, Johnson brought fresh hope with his vision.
His resolve was cemented by his relationship with football in college, which made the XFL meaningful to him. The XFL officially relaunched in 2023, incorporating new teams, changed rules, and adequate monetary assistance. In the first season alone, The Rock’s star power fueled a whopping 40% increase in TV ratings. Not to mention sponsorship deals, to which the league became obliged almost instantly. The question now remains: does the XFL finally have a chance to dethrone the enduring reign of the NFL?
Hollywood’s Power in Sports: A New Era Begins!
Earning from sports is no longer a game only for billionaires and former athletes. Hundreds of big-shot Hollywood stars have shown that they have both the vision and the money. These celebrities are shifting the paradigm from Reynolds’ emotional ride with Wrexham to Beckham’s truly global football brand. Those backed by Hollywood stars are seeing rapid growth like never before. What’s next? Is there a possibility that Tom Cruise will own an F1 team? Or perhaps we could see Leonardo DiCaprio purchasing an NBA franchise? One thing is certain: the next jaw-dropping bolt-from-the-blue investment is around the corner, and it is obvious that Hollywood’s meddling in sports is increasing.